Research

16 pages, 500 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Influence of Equimolar Doses of Beetroot Juice and Sodium Nitrate on Time Trial Performance in Handcycling

by Joelle Leonie Flueck, Alessandro Gallo, Nynke Moelijker, Nikolay Bogdanov, Anna Bogdanova and Claudio Perret

Nutrients 2019, 11(7), 1642; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11071642 - 18 Jul 2019

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3803

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the influence of a single dose of either beetroot juice (BR) or sodium nitrate (NIT) on performance in a 10 km handcycling time trial (TT) in able-bodied individuals and paracyclists. In total, 14 able-bodied individuals [mean ± SD; [...] Read more.

This study aimed to investigate the influence of a single dose of either beetroot juice (BR) or sodium nitrate (NIT) on performance in a 10 km handcycling time trial (TT) in able-bodied individuals and paracyclists. In total, 14 able-bodied individuals [mean ± SD; age: 28 ± 7 years, height: 183 ± 5 cm, body mass (BM): 82 ± 9 kg, peak oxygen consumption (VO_2peak): 33.9 ± 4.2 mL/min/kg] and eight paracyclists (age: 40 ± 11 years, height: 176 ± 9cm, BM: 65 ± 9 kg, VO_2peak: 38.6 ± 10.5 mL/min/kg) participated in the study. All participants had to perform three TT on different days, receiving either 6 mmol nitrate as BR or NIT or water as a placebo. Time-to-complete the TT, power output (PO), as well as oxygen uptake (VO₂) were measured. No significant differences in time-to-complete the TT were found between the three interventions in able-bodied individuals (p = 0.80) or in paracyclists (p = 0.61). Furthermore, VO₂ was not significantly changed after the ingestion of BR or NIT in either group (p < 0.05). The PO to VO₂ ratio was significantly higher in some kilometers of the TT in able-bodied individuals (p < 0.05). The ingestion of BR or NIT did not increase handcycling performance in able-bodied individuals or in paracyclists. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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14 pages, 1363 KiB

Open AccessArticle

No Effect of Tart Cherry Juice or Pomegranate Juice on Recovery from Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage in Non-Resistance Trained Men

by Kirstie L. Lamb, Mayur K. Ranchordas, Elizabeth Johnson, Jessica Denning, Faye Downing and Anthony Lynn

Nutrients 2019, 11(7), 1593; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11071593 - 14 Jul 2019

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 7658

Abstract

Tart cherry juice (TC) and pomegranate juice (POM) have been demonstrated to reduce symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD), but their effectiveness has not been compared. This randomized, double-blind, parallel study compared the effects of TC and POM on markers of EIMD. Thirty-six [...] Read more.

Tart cherry juice (TC) and pomegranate juice (POM) have been demonstrated to reduce symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD), but their effectiveness has not been compared. This randomized, double-blind, parallel study compared the effects of TC and POM on markers of EIMD. Thirty-six non-resistance trained men (age 24.0 (Interquartile Range (IQR) 22.0, 33.0) years, body mass index (BMI) 25.6 ± 4.0 kg·m⁻²) were randomly allocated to consume 2 × 250 mL of: TC, POM, or an energy-matched fruit-flavored placebo drink twice daily for nine days. On day 5, participants undertook eccentric exercise of the elbow flexors of their non-dominant arm. Pre-exercise, immediately post-exercise, and at 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 96 h post-exercise, maximal isometric voluntary contraction (MIVC), delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), creatine kinase (CK), and range of motion (ROM) were measured. The exercise protocol induced significant decreases in MIVC (p < 0.001; max decrease of 26.8%, 24 h post-exercise) and ROM (p = 0.001; max decrease of 6.8%, 72 h post-exercise) and significant increases in CK (p = 0.03; max increase 1385 U·L⁻¹, 96 h post-exercise) and DOMS (p < 0.001; max increase of 26.9 mm, 48 h post-exercise). However, there were no statistically significant differences between treatment groups (main effect of group p > 0.05 or group x time interaction p > 0.05). These data suggest that in non-resistance trained men, neither TC nor POM enhance recovery from high-force eccentric exercise of the elbow flexors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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14 pages, 2454 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Beef Protein Supplementation Improve Body Composition and Exercise Performance? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

by Pedro L. Valenzuela, Fernando Mata, Javier S. Morales, Adrián Castillo-García and Alejandro Lucia

Nutrients 2019, 11(6), 1429; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11061429 - 25 Jun 2019

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 12447

Abstract

Protein supplementation might improve body composition and exercise performance. Supplements containing whey protein (WP) have received the most attention, but other protein sources such as beef protein (BP) are gaining popularity. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials that [...] Read more.

Protein supplementation might improve body composition and exercise performance. Supplements containing whey protein (WP) have received the most attention, but other protein sources such as beef protein (BP) are gaining popularity. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials that compared the effects of exercise training combined with BP, WP or no protein supplementation (NP), on body composition or exercise performance. Secondary endpoints included intervention effects on total protein intake and hematological parameters. Seven studies (n = 270 participants) were included. No differences were found between BP and WP for total protein intake (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.04, p = 0.892), lean body mass (LBM) (SMD = −0.01, p = 0.970) or fat mass (SMD = 0.07, p = 0.760). BP significantly increased total daily protein intake (SMD = 0.68, p < 0.001), LBM (SMD = 0.34, p = 0.049) and lower-limb muscle strength (SMD = 0.40, p = 0.014) compared to NP, but no significant differences were found between both conditions for fat mass (SMD = 0.15, p = 0.256), upper-limb muscle strength (SMD = 0.16, p = 0.536) or total iron intake (SMD = 0.29, p = 0.089). In summary, BP provides similar effects to WP on protein intake and body composition and, compared to NP, might be an effective intervention to increase total daily protein intake, LBM and lower-limb muscle strength. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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13 pages, 502 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nutritional Intake, Sports Nutrition Knowledge and Energy Availability in Female Australian Rules Football Players

by Dominique Condo, Rachel Lohman, Monica Kelly and Amelia Carr

Nutrients 2019, 11(5), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11050971 - 28 Apr 2019

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 15960

Abstract

This study aimed to assess nutritional intake, sports nutrition knowledge and risk of Low Energy Availability (LEA) in female Australian rules football players. Victorian Football League Women’s competition (VFLW) players (n = 30) aged 18–35 (weight: 64.5 kg ± 8.0; height: 168.2 cm [...] Read more.

This study aimed to assess nutritional intake, sports nutrition knowledge and risk of Low Energy Availability (LEA) in female Australian rules football players. Victorian Football League Women’s competition (VFLW) players (n = 30) aged 18–35 (weight: 64.5 kg ± 8.0; height: 168.2 cm ± 7.6) were recruited from Victoria, Australia. Nutritional intake was quantified on training days using the Automated 24 h Dietary Assessment Tool (ASA24-Australia), and sports nutrition knowledge was measured by the 88-item Sports Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire (SNKQ). The risk of LEA was assessed using the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q). Daily mean carbohydrate intake in the current investigation was 3 g⋅kg⁻¹⋅d⁻¹, therefore, below the minimum carbohydrate recommendation for moderate exercise of approximately one hour per day (5–7 g⋅kg⁻¹⋅d⁻¹) and for moderate to intense exercise for 1–3 h per day (6–10 g⋅kg⁻¹⋅d⁻¹) for 96.3% and 100% of players, respectively. Daily mean protein intake was 1.5 g⋅kg⁻¹⋅d⁻¹, therefore, consistent with recommendations (1.2–2.0 g⋅kg⁻¹⋅d⁻¹) for 77.8% of players. Daily mean calcium intake was 924.8 mg⋅d⁻¹, therefore, below recommendations (1000 mg⋅d⁻¹) for 65.5% of players, while mean iron intake was 12.2 mg⋅d⁻¹, also below recommendations (18 mg⋅d⁻¹) for 100% of players. Players answered 54.5% of SNKQ questions correctly, with the lowest scores observed in the section on supplements. Risk of LEA was evident in 30% of players, with no differences in carbohydrate (p = 0.238), protein (p = 0.296), fat (p = 0.490) or energy (p = 0.971) intakes between players at risk of LEA and those not at risk. The results suggest that female Australian rules football players have an inadequate intake of carbohydrate and calcium and low sports nutrition knowledge. Further investigation to assess the risk of LEA using direct measures is required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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13 pages, 415 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anaerobic Performance after a Low-Carbohydrate Diet (LCD) Followed by 7 Days of Carbohydrate Loading in Male Basketball Players

by Małgorzata Magdalena Michalczyk, Jakub Chycki, Adam Zajac, Adam Maszczyk, Grzegorz Zydek and Józef Langfort

Nutrients 2019, 11(4), 778; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11040778 - 04 Apr 2019

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 14779

Abstract

Despite increasing interest among athletes and scientists on the influence of different dietary interventions on sport performance, the association between a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet and anaerobic capacity has not been studied extensively. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of [...] Read more.

Despite increasing interest among athletes and scientists on the influence of different dietary interventions on sport performance, the association between a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet and anaerobic capacity has not been studied extensively. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) followed by seven days of carbohydrate loading (Carbo-L) on anaerobic performance in male basketball players. Fifteen competitive basketball players took part in the experiment. They performed the Wingate test on three occasions: after the conventional diet (CD), following 4 weeks of the LCD, and after the weekly Carbo-L, to evaluate changes in peak power (PP), total work (TW), time to peak power (TTP), blood lactate concentration (LA), blood pH, and bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻). Additionally, the concentrations of testosterone, growth hormone, cortisol, and insulin were measured after each dietary intervention. The low-carbohydrate diet procedure significantly decreased total work, resting values of pH, and blood lactate concentration. After the low-carbohydrate diet, testosterone and growth hormone concentrations increased, while the level of insulin decreased. After the Carbo-L, total work, resting values of pH, bicarbonate, and lactate increased significantly compared with the results obtained after the low-carbohydrate diet. Significant differences after the low-carbohydrate diet and Carbo-L procedures, in values of blood lactate concentration, pH, and bicarbonate, between baseline and post exercise values were also observed. Four weeks of the low-carbohydrate diet decreased total work capacity, which returned to baseline values after the carbohydrate loading procedure. Moreover, neither the low-carbohydrate feeding nor carbohydrate loading affected peak power. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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12 pages, 2731 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Effects of Dietary Pattern on the Oral Microbiome of Elite Endurance Athletes

by Nida Murtaza, Louise M. Burke, Nicole Vlahovich, Bronwen Charlesson, Hayley M. O’Neill, Megan L. Ross, Katrina L. Campbell, Lutz Krause and Mark Morrison

Nutrients 2019, 11(3), 614; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11030614 - 13 Mar 2019

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 8152

Abstract

Although the oral microbiota is known to play a crucial role in human health, there are few studies of diet x oral microbiota interactions, and none in elite athletes who may manipulate their intakes of macronutrients to achieve different metabolic adaptations in pursuit [...] Read more.

Although the oral microbiota is known to play a crucial role in human health, there are few studies of diet x oral microbiota interactions, and none in elite athletes who may manipulate their intakes of macronutrients to achieve different metabolic adaptations in pursuit of optimal endurance performance. The aim of this study was to investigate the shifts in the oral microbiome of elite male endurance race walkers from Europe, Asia, the Americas and Australia, in response to one of three dietary patterns often used by athletes during a period of intensified training: a High Carbohydrate (HCHO; n = 9; with 60% energy intake from carbohydrates; ~8.5 g kg⁻¹ day⁻¹ carbohydrate, ~2.1 g kg⁻¹ day⁻¹ protein, 1.2 g kg⁻¹ day⁻¹ fat) diet, a Periodised Carbohydrate (PCHO; n = 10; same macronutrient composition as HCHO, but the intake of carbohydrates is different across the day and throughout the week to support training sessions with high or low carbohydrate availability) diet or a ketogenic Low Carbohydrate High Fat (LCHF; n = 10; 0.5 g kg⁻¹ day⁻¹ carbohydrate; 78% energy as fat; 2.1 g kg⁻¹ day⁻¹ protein) diet. Saliva samples were collected both before (Baseline; BL) and after the three-week period (Post treatment; PT) and the oral microbiota profiles for each athlete were produced by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Principal coordinates analysis of the oral microbiota profiles based on the weighted UniFrac distance measure did not reveal any specific clustering with respect to diet or athlete ethnic origin, either at baseline (BL) or following the diet-training period. However, discriminant analyses of the oral microbiota profiles by Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) Effect Size (LEfSe) and sparse Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (sPLS-DA) did reveal changes in the relative abundance of specific bacterial taxa, and, particularly, when comparing the microbiota profiles following consumption of the carbohydrate-based diets with the LCHF diet. These analyses showed that following consumption of the LCHF diet the relative abundances of Haemophilus, Neisseria and Prevotella spp. were decreased, and the relative abundance of Streptococcus spp. was increased. Such findings suggest that diet, and, in particular, the LCHF diet can induce changes in the oral microbiota of elite endurance walkers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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11 pages, 553 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy Status and Body Composition Across a Collegiate Women’s Lacrosse Season

by Hannah A. Zabriskie, Bradley S. Currier, Patrick S. Harty, Richard A. Stecker, Andrew R. Jagim and Chad M. Kerksick

Nutrients 2019, 11(2), 470; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11020470 - 23 Feb 2019

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5698

Abstract

Little data is available regarding the energy and nutritional status of female collegiate team sport athletes. Twenty female NCAA Division II lacrosse athletes (mean ± SD: 20.4 ± 1.8 years; 68.8 ± 8.9 kg; 168.4 ± 6.6 cm; 27.9 ± 3% body fat) [...] Read more.

Little data is available regarding the energy and nutritional status of female collegiate team sport athletes. Twenty female NCAA Division II lacrosse athletes (mean ± SD: 20.4 ± 1.8 years; 68.8 ± 8.9 kg; 168.4 ± 6.6 cm; 27.9 ± 3% body fat) recorded dietary intake and wore a physical activity monitor over four consecutive days at five different time points (20 days total) during one academic year. Body composition, bone health, and resting metabolic rate were assessed in conjunction with wearing the monitor during off-season, pre-season, and season-play. Body fat percentage decreased slightly during the course of this study (p = 0.037). Total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) (p < 0.001) and activity energy expenditure (AEE) (p = 0.001) energy were found to change significantly over the course of the year, with pre-season training resulting in the highest energy expenditures (TDEE: 2789 ± 391 kcal/day; AEE: 1001 ± 267 kcal/day). Caloric (2124 ± 448 kcal/day), carbohydrate (3.6 ± 1.1 g/kg), and protein (1.2 ± 0.3 g/kg) intake did not change over the course of the year (p > 0.05). Athletes self-reported a moderate negative energy balance (366–719 kcal/day) and low energy availability (22.9–30.4 kcal/kg FFM) at each measurement period throughout the study. Reported caloric and macronutrient intake was low given the recorded energy expenditure and macronutrient intake recommendations for athletes. Athletic support staff should provide athletes with appropriate fueling strategies, particularly during pre-season training, to adequately meet energy demands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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21 pages, 1031 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Satiating Effect of High Protein Diets on Resistance-Trained Individuals in Energy Deficit

by Justin Roberts, Anastasia Zinchenko, Krishnaa T. Mahbubani, James Johnstone, Lee Smith, Viviane Merzbach, Miguel Blacutt, Oscar Banderas, Luis Villasenor, Fredrik T. Vårvik and Menno Henselmans

Nutrients 2019, 11(1), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11010056 - 28 Dec 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 21773 | Correction

Abstract

Short-term energy deficit strategies are practiced by weight class and physique athletes, often involving high protein intakes to maximize satiety and maintain lean mass despite a paucity of research. This study compared the satiating effect of two protein diets on resistance-trained individuals during [...] Read more.

Short-term energy deficit strategies are practiced by weight class and physique athletes, often involving high protein intakes to maximize satiety and maintain lean mass despite a paucity of research. This study compared the satiating effect of two protein diets on resistance-trained individuals during short-term energy deficit. Following ethical approval, 16 participants (age: 28 ± 2 years; height: 1.72 ± 0.03 m; body-mass: 88.83 ± 5.54 kg; body-fat: 21.85 ± 1.82%) were randomly assigned to 7-days moderate (PRO_MOD: 1.8 g·kg⁻¹·d⁻¹) or high protein (PRO_HIGH: 2.9 g·kg⁻¹·d⁻¹) matched calorie-deficit diets in a cross-over design. Daily satiety responses were recorded throughout interventions. Pre-post diet, plasma ghrelin and peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY), and satiety ratings were assessed in response to a protein-rich meal. Only perceived satisfaction was significantly greater following PRO_HIGH (67.29 ± 4.28 v 58.96 ± 4.51 mm, p = 0.04). Perceived cravings increased following PRO_MOD only (46.25 ± 4.96 to 57.60 ± 4.41 mm, p = 0.01). Absolute ghrelin concentration significantly reduced post-meal following PRO_MOD (972.8 ± 130.4 to 613.6 ± 114.3 pg·mL⁻¹; p = 0.003), remaining lower than PRO_HIGH at 2 h (−0.40 ± 0.06 v −0.26 ± 0.06 pg·mL⁻¹ normalized relative change; p = 0.015). Absolute PYY concentration increased to a similar extent post-meal (PRO_MOD: 84.9 ± 8.9 to 147.1 ± 11.9 pg·mL⁻¹, PRO_HIGH: 100.6 ± 9.5 to 143.3 ± 12.0 pg·mL⁻¹; p < 0.001), but expressed as relative change difference was significantly greater for PRO_MOD at 2 h (+0.39 ± 0.20 pg·mL⁻¹ v −0.28 ± 0.12 pg·mL⁻¹; p = 0.001). Perceived hunger, fullness and satisfaction post-meal were comparable between diets (p > 0.05). However, desire to eat remained significantly blunted for PRO_MOD (p = 0.048). PRO_HIGH does not confer additional satiating benefits in resistance-trained individuals during short-term energy deficit. Ghrelin and PYY responses to a test-meal support the contention that satiety was maintained following PRO_MOD, although athletes experiencing negative symptoms (i.e., cravings) may benefit from protein-rich meals as opposed to over-consumption of protein. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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13 pages, 1398 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Branched-Chain Amino Acids, Citrulline, and Arginine on High-Intensity Interval Performance in Young Swimmers

by Chun-Fang Hsueh, Huey-June Wu, Tzu-Shiou Tsai, Ching-Lin Wu and Chen-Kang Chang

Nutrients 2018, 10(12), 1979; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10121979 - 14 Dec 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7057

Abstract

High-intensity interval training has drawn significant interest for its ability to elicit similar training responses with less training volume compared to traditional moderate-intensity protocols. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of co-ingestion of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA), arginine, and [...] Read more.

High-intensity interval training has drawn significant interest for its ability to elicit similar training responses with less training volume compared to traditional moderate-intensity protocols. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of co-ingestion of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA), arginine, and citrulline on 8 × 50 m high-intensity interval swim performance in trained young swimmers. This study used a randomized cross-over design. Eight male (age 15.6 ± 1.3 years) and eight female (age 15.6 ± 0.9 years) swimmers completed both amino acids (AA) and placebo (PL) trials. The participants ingested 0.085 g/kg body weight BCAA, 0.05 g/kg body weight arginine and 0.05 g/kg body weight citrulline before the swim test in the AA trial. The average 50 m time was significantly shorter in the AA trial than that in the PL trial. The AA trial was faster than the PL trial in the first, second, and the seventh laps. The AA trial showed significantly higher plasma BCAA concentrations and lower tryptophan/BCAA ratio. The other biochemical parameters and ratings of perceived exertion were similar between the two trials. The results showed that BCAA, arginine, and citrulline, allowed the participants to swim faster in a high-intensity interval protocol in young swimmers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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11 pages, 473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Dietary Supplement Use in Wheelchair Rugby Athletes

by Robyn F. Madden, Jane Shearer, David Legg and Jill A. Parnell

Nutrients 2018, 10(12), 1958; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10121958 - 11 Dec 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5451

Abstract

Wheelchair rugby is a rapidly growing Paralympic sport; however, research remains predominantly in the realms of physiology and biomechanics. Currently, there is little investigation into nutrition and dietary supplement use among wheelchair rugby athletes (WRA). The aim of this study was to assess [...] Read more.

Wheelchair rugby is a rapidly growing Paralympic sport; however, research remains predominantly in the realms of physiology and biomechanics. Currently, there is little investigation into nutrition and dietary supplement use among wheelchair rugby athletes (WRA). The aim of this study was to assess the types of dietary supplements (DS) used, the prevalence of usage, and the reasons for use among WRA. The secondary aim was to report utilized and preferred sources of nutritional information among this population. A valid, reliable Dietary Supplement Questionnaire was used to report supplement use and reasons for use. Male (n = 33) and female (n = 9) WRA were recruited at a national tournament and through emailing coaches of various Canadian teams. Dietary supplement usage was prevalent as 90.9% of males and 77.8% of females reported usage within the past three months with the most regularly used supplements being vitamin D (26.2%), electrolytes (19.5%), and protein powder (19.5%). The most common reason for usage was performance. The top sources of nutrition information were dietitian/nutritionist and the internet. Further investigation into DS use is needed to help create nutritional guidelines that are accessible to WRA and athletes with disabilities in general. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

22 pages, 555 KiB

Open AccessReview

Honey Supplementation and Exercise: A Systematic Review

by Samuel P. Hills, Peter Mitchell, Christine Wells and Mark Russell

Nutrients 2019, 11(7), 1586; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11071586 - 12 Jul 2019

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 11164

Abstract

Honey is a natural substance formed primarily of carbohydrates (~80%) which also contains a number of other compounds purported to confer health benefits when consumed. Due to its carbohydrate composition (low glycaemic index, mostly fructose and glucose), honey may theoretically exert positive effects [...] Read more.

Honey is a natural substance formed primarily of carbohydrates (~80%) which also contains a number of other compounds purported to confer health benefits when consumed. Due to its carbohydrate composition (low glycaemic index, mostly fructose and glucose), honey may theoretically exert positive effects when consumed before, during or after exercise. This review therefore appraised research examining the effects of honey consumption in combination with exercise in humans. Online database (PubMed, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus) searches were performed, yielding 273 results. Following duplicate removal and application of exclusion criteria, nine articles were reviewed. Large methodological differences existed in terms of exercise stimulus, population, and the nutritional interventions examined. All nine studies reported biochemical variables, with four examining the effects of honey on exercise performance, whilst five described perceptual responses. Acute supplementation around a single exercise session appeared to elicit similar performance, perceptual, and immunological responses compared with other carbohydrate sources, although some performance benefit has been observed relative to carbohydrate-free comparators. When consumed over a number of weeks, honey may dampen immunological perturbations arising from exercise and possibly improve markers of bone formation. More well-controlled research is required to better understand the role for honey in a food-first approach to exercise nutrition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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15 pages, 940 KiB

Open AccessReview

Practical Hydration Solutions for Sports

by Luke N. Belval, Yuri Hosokawa, Douglas J. Casa, William M. Adams, Lawrence E. Armstrong, Lindsay B. Baker, Louise Burke, Samuel Cheuvront, George Chiampas, José González-Alonso, Robert A. Huggins, Stavros A. Kavouras, Elaine C. Lee, Brendon P. McDermott, Kevin Miller, Zachary Schlader, Stacy Sims, Rebecca L. Stearns, Chris Troyanos and Jonathan Wingo

Nutrients 2019, 11(7), 1550; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11071550 - 09 Jul 2019

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 29024

Abstract

Personalized hydration strategies play a key role in optimizing the performance and safety of athletes during sporting activities. Clinicians should be aware of the many physiological, behavioral, logistical and psychological issues that determine both the athlete’s fluid needs during sport and his/her opportunity [...] Read more.

Personalized hydration strategies play a key role in optimizing the performance and safety of athletes during sporting activities. Clinicians should be aware of the many physiological, behavioral, logistical and psychological issues that determine both the athlete’s fluid needs during sport and his/her opportunity to address them; these are often specific to the environment, the event and the individual athlete. In this paper we address the major considerations for assessing hydration status in athletes and practical solutions to overcome obstacles of a given sport. Based on these solutions, practitioners can better advise athletes to develop practices that optimize hydration for their sports. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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16 pages, 567 KiB

Open AccessReview

Dietary Intakes of Professional and Semi-Professional Team Sport Athletes Do Not Meet Sport Nutrition Recommendations—A Systematic Literature Review

by Sarah L. Jenner, Georgina L. Buckley, Regina Belski, Brooke L. Devlin and Adrienne K. Forsyth

Nutrients 2019, 11(5), 1160; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11051160 - 23 May 2019

Cited by 71 | Viewed by 20260

Abstract

Background: to develop sport-specific and effective dietary advice, it is important to understand the dietary intakes of team sport athletes. This systematic literature review aims to (1) assess the dietary intakes of professional and semi-professional team sport athletes and (2) to identify priority [...] Read more.

Background: to develop sport-specific and effective dietary advice, it is important to understand the dietary intakes of team sport athletes. This systematic literature review aims to (1) assess the dietary intakes of professional and semi-professional team sport athletes and (2) to identify priority areas for dietetic intervention. Methods: an extensive search of MEDLINE, Sports DISCUS, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus databases in April–May 2018 was conducted and identified 646 studies. Included studies recruited team sport, competitive (i.e., professional or semi-professional) athletes over the age of 18 years. An assessment of dietary intake in studies was required and due to the variability of data (i.e., nutrient and food group data) a meta-analysis was not undertaken. Two independent authors extracted data using a standardised process. Results: 21 (n = 511) studies that assessed dietary intake of team sport athletes met the inclusion criteria. Most reported that professional and semi-professional athletes’ dietary intakes met or exceeded recommendations during training and competition for protein and/or fat, but not energy and carbohydrate. Limitations in articles include small sample sizes, heterogeneity of data and existence of underreporting. Conclusions: this review highlights the need for sport-specific dietary recommendations that focus on energy and carbohydrate intake. Further exploration of factors influencing athletes’ dietary intakes including why athletes’ dietary intakes do not meet energy and/or carbohydrate recommendations is required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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13 pages, 323 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sleep and Nutrition Interactions: Implications for Athletes

by Rónán Doherty, Sharon Madigan, Giles Warrington and Jason Ellis

Nutrients 2019, 11(4), 822; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11040822 - 11 Apr 2019

Cited by 81 | Viewed by 44174

Abstract

This narrative review explores the relationship between sleep and nutrition. Various nutritional interventions have been shown to improve sleep including high carbohydrate, high glycaemic index evening meals, melatonin, tryptophan rich protein, tart cherry juice, kiwifruit and micronutrients. Sleep disturbances and short sleep duration [...] Read more.

This narrative review explores the relationship between sleep and nutrition. Various nutritional interventions have been shown to improve sleep including high carbohydrate, high glycaemic index evening meals, melatonin, tryptophan rich protein, tart cherry juice, kiwifruit and micronutrients. Sleep disturbances and short sleep duration are behavioural risk factors for inflammation, associated with increased risk of illness and disease, which can be modified to promote sleep health. For sleep to have a restorative effect on the body, it must be of adequate duration and quality; particularly for athletes whose physical and mental recovery needs may be greater due to the high physiological and psychological demands placed on them during training and competition. Sleep has been shown to have a restorative effect on the immune system, the endocrine system, facilitate the recovery of the nervous system and metabolic cost of the waking state and has an integral role in learning, memory and synaptic plasticity, all of which can impact both athletic recovery and performance. Functional food-based interventions designed to enhance sleep quality and quantity or promote general health, sleep health, training adaptations and/or recovery warrant further investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

32 pages, 1010 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Mineral and Trace Element Supplementation in Exercise and Athletic Performance: A Systematic Review

by Shane Michael Heffernan, Katy Horner, Giuseppe De Vito and Gillian Eileen Conway

Nutrients 2019, 11(3), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11030696 - 24 Mar 2019

Cited by 73 | Viewed by 28326

Abstract

Minerals and trace elements (MTEs) are micronutrients involved in hundreds of biological processes. Deficiency in MTEs can negatively affect athletic performance. Approximately 50% of athletes have reported consuming some form of micronutrient supplement; however, there is limited data confirming their efficacy for improving [...] Read more.

Minerals and trace elements (MTEs) are micronutrients involved in hundreds of biological processes. Deficiency in MTEs can negatively affect athletic performance. Approximately 50% of athletes have reported consuming some form of micronutrient supplement; however, there is limited data confirming their efficacy for improving performance. The aim of this study was to systematically review the role of MTEs in exercise and athletic performance. Six electronic databases and grey literature sources (MEDLINE; EMBASE; CINAHL and SportDISCUS; Web of Science and clinicaltrials.gov) were searched, in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Results: 17,433 articles were identified and 130 experiments from 128 studies were included. Retrieved articles included Iron (n = 29), Calcium (n = 11), Magnesium, (n = 22), Phosphate (n = 17), Zinc (n = 9), Sodium (n = 15), Boron (n = 4), Selenium (n = 5), Chromium (n = 12) and multi-mineral articles (n = 5). No relevant articles were identified for Copper, Manganese, Iodine, Nickel, Fluoride or Cobalt. Only Iron and Magnesium included articles of sufficient quality to be assigned as ‘strong’. Currently, there is little evidence to support the use of MTE supplementation to improve physiological markers of athletic performance, with the possible exception of Iron (in particular, biological situations) and Magnesium as these currently have the strongest quality evidence. Regardless, some MTEs may possess the potential to improve athletic performance, but more high quality research is required before support for these MTEs can be given. PROSPERO preregistered (CRD42018090502). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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1 pages, 170 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Roberts et al. “Satiating Effect of High Protein Diets on Resistance-Trained Individuals in Energy Deficit” Nutrients 2019, 11(1), 56

by Justin Roberts, Anastasia Zinchenko, Krishnaa Mahbubani, James Johnstone, Lee Smith, Viviane Merzbach, Miguel Blacutt, Oscar Banderas, Luis Villasenor, Fredrik T. Vårvik and Menno Henselmans

Nutrients 2019, 11(7), 1543; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11071543 - 08 Jul 2019

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2242

Abstract

The authors wish to make a correction to the published version of their paper [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Support for Athletic Performance)

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